MAN · Mechanical Analysis of Nanocomposites: an experimental and computational study of the mechanical behavior of polycrystalline and tough nanocomposite structures

Nanocomposite structures show enhanced mechanical properties (hardness and toughness) which are very interesting for protective purpose. The mechanical behavior of those materials is still not clear, and many different explanations (often contradictory) are present in the literature, which makes difficult the practical application of Nanocomposites. This project proposes to study the deformation mechanisms of these structures by a combined experimental and theoretical (computational) approach. This original approach will allow understanding phenomena which were still unapproachable until a few years ago and to clarify at once, the particular behavior of Nanocomposite structures. From the experimental side, a set of thin films with the abovementioned structures will be prepared by magnetron sputtering and characterized by several techniques, such as XRD, TEM, EELS, SEM, XPS, etc. Mechanical properties will be measured by nanoindentation. Further specific measurements will also be done for some selected samples, in order to evaluate “in situ” the deformation of these materials under stress by SEM, TEM/ED and XRD from a synchrotron source. From the theoretical side, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations will be done to evaluate the role of the crystal size, phase composition and presence of impurities in nanocomposite structures (and polycrystalline ones for comparison). The new knowledge, know-how and tools developed during this project will contribute to bring EU on the forefront of nanocomposite structures and their applications. Together with a training aiming at expending both technical skills (e.g in the field of nanoindentation, diffraction, TEM) and soft-skills (e.g. science management), this project will allow placing the candidate on his path for becoming a leading expert in the field of nanocomposites. In conclusion, this project will have a great impact not only on the researcher, but also on the participating institutions, and in Europe by extension.